Granadilla

The pulp of ripe granadilla and its seeds may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. Note that granadilla is acidic and may cause a harmless rash upon contact with skin and also may cause or worsen diaper rash. Unripe granadilla, as well as the leaves and skin of both the unripe and ripe fruit can be toxic, so make sure to only serve the fruit when ripe and don’t let babies or toddlers munch on the fruit’s skin.

Unripe granadilla, as well as the leaves and skin of both the unripe and ripe fruit can be toxic, so make sure to only serve the fruit when ripe and don’t let babies or toddlers munch on the fruit’s skin.

Granadilla originated in South America, where the evergreen climbing vine grows in the tropics and mountain forests alike. Centuries ago, colonization and trade introduced granadilla to other regions of the world, and today, the fruit is commonly eaten worldwide, including in Africa and Australia where granadilla is known as passion fruit. In fact, granadilla is part of the same plant family as passion fruit, though its flavor tends to be more mellow than the tart taste of orange, purple, and red passion fruits. Another difference: ripe passion fruit looks different than ripe granadilla. Granadilla skin remains shiny, firm, and smooth as the fruit ripens, unlike many varieties of passion fruit whose shells shrivel and wrinkle to signal that they are ready to eat.

Yes. Granadilla’s pulp and seeds offer fluid, water, and carbohydrates in addition to a number of phytochemicals. These nutrients work together to provide hydration, offer quick energy, support digestion, and promote physiological resilience. While detailed information for granadilla is limited, it likely has a similar nutritional profile to passion fruit, such as being rich in vitamins A, B6, and C. 

Granadilla is often used to make juices, smoothies, jelly, jams, and other sweet preparations. These foods tend to contain added sugar, which is best reserved for serving regularly until the second birthday. Waiting can help the child build good oral health and create more opportunities for the child to try other (less sweet) foods and build appreciation for a wide variety of food colors, tastes, and textures.

Unripe granadilla and unripe passion fruit are generally inedible and unsafe when unripe. Granadilla is ripe when the skin is firm and smooth, unlike ripe passion fruit, which is ready to eat once it has wrinkled and shriveled. The peel and leaves of the fruit, regardless of ripeness, are unsafe to eat..

No. Granadilla pulp and seeds are not common choking hazards for babies, though, in theory, an individual can choke on any food. While some suggest that granadilla seeds are a choking hazard, there is no data to support the claim, and in our professional opinion, the seeds may be consumed by babies who are 6 months of age and up. If the seeds are concerning to you, remove them before serving the pulp to baby. Know that granadilla pulp may spread on the tongue and cause some gagging in babies who are still learning to manage food in the mouth. As always, make sure to create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during mealtime. For more information on choking, visit our section on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with the list of common choking hazards.

No. However, individuals with latex allergy may be sensitive to granadilla. Granadilla is naturally acidic, which may upset the stomach when the pulp and seeds are consumed in large quantities. The fruit’s acidity may also cause a harmless rash upon contact with skin, typically around the mouth, but also occasionally in the diaper area. The rash usually dissipates quickly without treatment. To prevent irritation, apply a barrier ointment, such as petroleum jelly or a plant-based oil-wax combination, to baby’s face and diaper area before a meal with granadilla. 

As you would when introducing any new food, start by serving a small quantity for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.

No. Juice of any kind should not be offered as a drink before the first birthday unless directed to do so by a healthcare provider.  After the first birthday, small amounts of juice (less than 4 oz or 118 ml a day, ideally diluted with water to reduce sweetness) may be safely offered as a drink but there may be benefits to waiting until after the second birthday or even longer. Delaying the introduction of sweet drinks, like fruit juice, can help build a solid foundation for nourishing eating in childhood and beyond by creating appreciation and familiarity with other (less sweet) liquids and opening up more space for toddlers to explore a wide variety of food colors, tastes, and textures. Regular and especially excessive consumption of sweet beverages may reduce the diversity of foods and nutrients consumed, increase the risk of dental cavities, and alter appetite in ways that can negatively affect growth.

Yes. Granadilla contains fiber and water, which help to support healthy gut bacteria, bulk up poop, and hydrate the intestines for healthy digestion and bowel movements. Some high-fiber foods like granadilla can also produce gas and, at times, diaper blowouts. While this is normal, it can be uncomfortable for baby. A little gassiness or a few diaper blowouts are not signs to stop serving the food, just signs that baby’s system is adjusting. To minimize digestive discomfort, introduce high-fiber foods in a small amount, gradually increase the amount served, and regularly offer the fruit in baby’s diet as tolerated. Note that granadilla contains small seeds that may be visible in baby’s poop. This is normal, as many seeds are naturally resistant to digestion. Remember that pooping patterns can vary significantly from baby to baby. If you have concerns about baby’s pooping and digestive function, check out our page on knowing when to worry about baby’s poop and, as always, talk to your pediatric healthcare provider.